Thank you for your response. Sorry I failed to mention where my rash is. I have it starting on my chin, traveling down my neck and behind my ear and back to the base of my spine. I figure I can cover my neck area by turning up the collar on a golf shirt. I'm not too sure about the chin area, but, am thinking about wearing a large brimmed hat. After reading most of your website and responses to individuals' question, I didn't think I could give anyone chicken pox (and, I know, it would be someone who hadn't already had chicken pox), unless they came in contact with the fluid from my blisters. I don't intend to touch anyone at the golf tournament or the football game. Is it still unsafe for me to attend the events since the virus cannot be contracted via airborne particles? And, additional question, too, please... does heat, like 95 degree weather, effect the rash? Thanks so much, again. If it matters, I'm a 46 year old female.
Even if you have had an episode of shingles all patients above 60 must receive a vaccine to avoid a recurrence of shingles. This advisory is according to a vote by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices at its meeting in Atlanta last month.
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From: Shannon
Q
: I have had shingles for about 5 days. (I've gone to the doctor and am taking Valtrex and Gabapentin.) I'm curious about two elements. First, does sun exposure aggrevate the rash/blisters? Second, does outdoor activities such as golf or watching a football game in the stadium effect the rash/blisters? Thank you for the very helpful website! And, thank you in advance for your response.
Answer
:Hello Shannon. A shingles rash can make the skin extremely sensitive and tender. Too much sun exposure can irritate the skin and cause some dryness or itching. You haven't said where your rash is, you may be able to cover it with clothes when you are out. However you must also consider the risk of infecting others with chicken pox. A person with shingles can give chicken pox infection to others. You should check with your doctor before going out.